Bean Plant Growth

A favorite vegetable for gardenering, are the many varieties of the bean plant and by becoming aware of the grow zones and seasons you can reap the full benefits. Beans, snap peas and soy beans are a healthy addition to a persons daily dietary needs. Beans are very high in protein, making them a important factor for a vegetarians diet and non-vegetarians often enjoy them as a side dish during meals.

For gardeners, the first stage of bean plant growth is important and you will need to be sure to purchase good seed products before planting. High quality seeds have a much higher chance of the plant taking root, which will result in a higher yield in your garden. Even though it may cost more money for the good quality seeds, it is worth it because of the return you get for the expense and your labor will pay off by the delicious vegetables you get in return.

The best plant growth conditions for beans range in temperature from no lower than 61 degrees Fahrenheit or 16 degrees Celsius. If the temperature drops below this level, your plants will not germinate, and may die.

Once your seeds are planted, the time it takes for the plant to reach the seedling stage can range from three to approximately forty days, with the average being eleven days. A seedling is a very young plant that has just begun to break the surface of the soil. Gardeners need to pay close attention to this phase in the bean plant growth cycle in order for a fuller fruit yield from the plant. When seedlings get dehydrated or suffer from over watering in this early stage it will effect the amount of harvested beans during the plants full growth development.

After planting, it will take approximately fifty days from the point of the seedling stage cycle for the plant to begin producing pods that are ready to harvest. For most gardeners, the full cycle of bean growth can only be accomplish once per season. Planting of beans should occur no earlier than March to ensure that your plants have had adequate time to grow during the season before fall frosts strike. Frost can cause serious damage to bean plants and should be avoided in order for the plants survival. In colder climates, this can be tricky, therefore a greenhouse alternative can be used to help grow the plants.

Because it is an annual plant, they can grow again each year for several seasons at a time. Seeds should be placed about two inches apart during planting a garden and when the plants have started growing, it is recommended to remove any weaker plants, so each plant has about 4 inches of space on each side. The soil should be fully cultivated to help prevent the garden from being overtaken by weeds.